I brought my baby lock in for a service and repair. When I brought it in I asked them to call me first before any repairs, mostly because I have to be frugal. I called 2 days later to inquire and was told the repairman would call when he was finished. I had to remind them that I needed a quote first. They called the next day and said I needed a new scanner and the cost is $2500. I asked about getting it serviced but they said it’s all inclusive so no it wasn’t serviced.Come to find out there’s no such thing as replacing a scanner. (Per Baby Lock)I think they just hiked up the price hoping I would buy a new machine from them. Not cool!
Update: Customer service had me bring the machine to their great bridge location. I talked to the service technician and he spent the time seeing the error I kept getting. Come to find out, in the last 2 servicing of the machine, the back was never cleaned. And it was all messed up because of it. Go to the one at Great bridge. Byron knows what he is doing. The 2 stars remain.I usually update to higher stars if the company fixes the problem, but this location needs a machine technician that does the full job.I brought my sewing machine to be serviced, I was told 89.99. ok, seems fair. They cant fix the problem at this store so they have a tech look at it at their great bridge store, will take a little longer. Ok. Come to pick up the machine, that will be $119.99. Say what now? Not quoted that. Ok they adjust it. They have my machine under a wrong ticket. They lose my power cord and tell me I didnt bring it in. No I did. I had my initials on it. You lost it. 😠 Lets hope they actually fixed it like they said.Still dirty!
Eric cleaned my Baby Lock Lyric, quick return.Customer Service was great.
Both of my vacuums quit at the same time so I took them to SewVac. Everyone was very nice and friendly. Price was very reasonable. They told me they were a bit backed up so it could be 3-4 days before they’re ready. I jokingly (not really) told them my floors will be a huge mess by then. We laughed and I left. Imagine my surprise when I got a call THE VERY NEXT DAY to pick up my machines!! They both work very well now, thank you!!
We went to buy a smaller machine but left with an embroidery machine. I love buying my machines here because the service is amazing. Eric is so knowledgeable about all the machines and always so helpful whenever I need help.I ended up buying another machine here too. Everyone is so helpful and really goes put of their way to make sure you have what you need and that you are happy. Buying local really ensures that you get all the help you need and they remember you and your machine. All the classes are great and the instructors are really passionate too. I highly recommend getting your sewing machine here.
Brought in my Dyson vacuum cleaner for service and it was repaired while I was there! It only needed a new battery and they replaced it. Fast and effective service. Highly recommend.
I had two sewing machines down and three girls learning to sew. They were quick and always kind. I didn’t miss a class and the price of this service was reasonable. Thanks!
Terrible prices, couldn’t tell me an estimated date for the battery delivery, had my vacuum for over a week and a half and didn’t even bother to troubleshoot and see if the battery was really the issue. When asked what to do about the wait and battery issue he actually recommended I come pick it up and don’t bother using their services. I fixed it myself with a YouTube video and a part from Amazon within 2 days.
Owner was very professional and knowledgeable. He also made suggestions about vac and showed me some of his other merchandise which were worth considering later. I was told one price via phone but actually paid less. I would recommend this merchant to others.
Service was quick & friendly. Had my machine back the next day. Works like new. Great job Tidewater Sew-Vac!
Love shopping here! All my questions are answered and Rachel took special time giving me tips and choosing products for me that’ll actually help. It’s obvious that the customer is more important than the sale and that’s why I keep coming back.
The staff was very friendly and nice. They helped me and even showed me around the store.
My vintage Kirby Sentria needed a new motor... and Tim completed the repair in less than 24 hours!!!Now the only thing that sucks is my Vaccum :)
They’ve serviced my sewing machine in the past and I just bought my first serger from them! Spent the time to talk me through and answer questions even though it was almost closing. Ended up leaving there after their close time, but was told they have classes in the back and we’re going to be there anyways, so I didn’t feel bad. Def a great place to go if you need advanced help, was just at Joanns a few days ago and they were recommending someone to them because they can usually help with more detailed questions.
Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Had the supplies to keep my old vacuum working well; no pressure to buy a new one.
I found a great sewing machine here. It was a better machine that I had planned to purchase and it was at a much better price. Today I had a snag I could not fix. Our friendly neighborhood Sew Vac fixed it and it is home already! They are so friendly and helpful.
I bought a Janome Magnolia for my mother and she loves it. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Tidewater Sew-Vac
Our family has been going to Tidewater SewVac for years. Eric has always been very knowledgeable, helpful, and honest. We highly recommend them!
I started coming here to learn new sewing techniques and quilting a couple of years ago. I enjoyed the atmosphere so much I now work here. If you need help with a sewing project, picking out a new machine, or need to have your sewing or vacuum machine repaired this is your place to go.
They were able to make a part for my Elna machine and had it back in 24 hours . Thank you for your fabulous service.
I always have great service at the Kemps River location. Very helpful staff. Good selection of sewing machines and notions as well as fabric. 😀
Great store…Great People!! I’m new to this Sewing Hobby and the People there are very helpful!!
Great customer service and excellent work. Thank you!
Always very helpful.
Love coming in here and just walking around. Beautiful displays. Clean. Friendly. Knowledgeable. Classes and fabric for sale too! They even sharpen scissors.
Sorry experience. Came in a few days ago to get an estimate on a repair and this bloke just comes up, pretty much ignores what I’m saying, and tries to show me the “best on the market”. I just wanted to know how much it would be to get my Hoover fixed not get thrown a sales pitch buddy. Read your customers a bit better next time.
My vacuum broke a few days ago, I was nervous to go to a store and have a salesman try to pressure me into something I wasnt comfortable paying. I told them my price range, expectations, worries etc. and he immediately started walking me through the options. He was very knowledgable about each item, took the time to talk me through what each tool was capable of, and even had a demonstration of what cleaning up my German Shepherds hair would be like. He was so easy to work with, personable, and even gave us some space after the demonstration to discuss our likes and dislikes before we made our final decision. (I cant stand when salesmen hover over you and dont let you have time to think!) After we decided to buy the vacuum, we came back the next day with a concern that was fixed within minutes. WONDERFUL customer service, and you best believe I will be buying all of my bags and accessories from this store for many years to come.
*This is for the sewing portion of the business* Product selection was great for Baby Lock, Brother, and Janome. Pricing is average to average-high. Unfortunately, the knowledge level of the sales associate on duty was hit-or-miss. It was obvious that she was not unfamiliar with sewing machines, but the breadth of her knowledge was limited when it came to using them for tasks aside from general sewing or embroidery. Specifically, we were looking for a machine suitable for quilting. Not only was knowledge in that field very limited, machines specifically designed and marketed for quilting were not displayed as such (quilting attachments had to be retrieved from a box in the back, pulls a dual feed foot out of the box and said here is the stitch regulator, etc.). Bottom line, I am disappointed that it appears some of these manufacturers do not have better standards for retail training requirements. It felt more like I had walked into Jo-Anns. That said, if you know exactly what you want and it is a brand they carry, there is a really good chance they have the model you want in stock.
I always have a great experience whenever I take one of their classes. Great instructor.
Courteous service. Very efficient. Have been using them to fix my sewing machine, as well as the vacuum cleaner and have always felt very satisfied with their performance.
Tidewater Sew-Vac is Awesome! I brought my British vac in for repair and bought an American Simplicity with the intent on paying to fix the old one and using it for the second floor. Got a great deal on the American Simplicity. My wife loves it! Extra brownie points there! Went to pick up the the British clunker and since Tidewater Sew-Vac has so many bits and bops they were able to fix it for Free! It was truly impressive, thank you so much.
Tidewater Sew and Vac Kempsville has become one of my favorite places to come to. I recently purchased a Janome sewing machine and Sebo vaccum cleaner. Super happy with both! Everyone there were all super helpful with any questions I had. Thank you Eric, Ginny and Sean. You have gained a faithful customer.
I recommend this business for vacuums sewing machines sewing supplies etc. I recently moved and my sewing machine was disassembled by movers who also broke parts. TIDEWATER sew-vac tuned up my machine and got it back to me in 2 days. Reasonably priced. Showed me the latest sewing machines on the market. Definitely recommend this business.
BRAND NEW 7 year old vacuum! My 7 year old Dyson had a broken clutch and belt - my fault! I took it in feeling pretty low thinking it was ruined. The service was EXCELLENT. They had the parts on hand and recommended a full service and new beater bar. I said, Sure. When I got it home the next day (!) I was amazed at how my carpets looked. Even my 20 year old son noticed how much better they looked. These guys are the best! Fast and efficient. Highly recommend
When I drove up and walked into the store the owner/tech was waiting at the test area. When I asked him how he knew what I wanted he said he saw me drive up! I found him to be extremely customer oriented and very honest about the options and his recommendations. It was a delightful experience all around and I highly recommend this location.
Tidewater Sew-Vac at Kempsriver has THE best repair / service center in all of Hampton Roads!! Eriks knowledge of sewing machine and vacuum repair is quite impressive. I never take my machines anywhere else!!!! The sewing and quilting classes are fun and educational..... I enjoyed this place so much that I decided to work part-time here!! The service is impeccable. 😊
Been a repeat customer for 30 years. On my 3rd Simplicity vacuum and purchased my 2nd Royal carpet shampooer today which now comes with attachments to clean various bare flooring! The customer service is outstanding. The products are quality built and extremely efficient, therefore perform long after cheap versions been thrown away. Truly, you get what you pay for.
They have a wonderful team and educators. Lila, Kay and Cynthia are wonderful teachers and genuinely nice people, who will help anyone. They are very knowledgeable about sewing, quilting and embroidery of all kinds. I love being in embroidery club and the summer sizzler sewing classes. They always provide a great experience.
Eric at Tidewater Sew and Vac is a priceless employee! If it wasnt for him I would not be taking my business to this store. He goes above and beyond to make sure that service is correct and makes the customer first in all aspects. He is knowledgeable and fair in his advice and sales. As long as he is there I will continue to frequent this business.
I brought my sewing machine in for repair, but I was forced to get a $89.95 tune-up. I knew my problem was a simple thing and it might have even been a user error because I am new to sewing. They wont look at it to see if it was a simple user error. (The stitches were not tight)It was put down your name and phone number, we will tune it up. The machine wasnt old enough to need a tune-up but that didnt seem to matter.
Erik was very knowledgeable and helpful when we came in with one broken vacuum (beyond repair) and another vacuum that needed repair. He took a lot of time to patiently explain to me my options, answer my questions, and allow me to try out different vacuums for myself in the store. They were able to repair the one vacuum, discarded the other one for me, and loaned me a courtesy vacuum to use while my vacuum was in for repair. I loved it so much, I ended up buying a similar one from them. I would definitely recommend Tidewater Sew-Vac for vacuum repair and/or purchasing.
There is always great customer service and products at Tidewater Sew-Vac. I started taking quilting classes there and even bought my first sewing and quilting machine from them at s great price. I loved the environment and people so much I started working there and became and educator myself to share my love of sewing and quilting. If you ever need a vacuum or sewing machine repaired no matter how new or old come to Tidewater Sew-Vac in the Kempsriver Shopping Center and see Erik Tate, he can fix any machine and if he cant he will help you find the best replacement for your money without being pushy. I love Tidewater Sew-Vac and will always go there for any of my sewing and quilting needs and machine repairs and services.
Must be short staffed since the pandemic is going on but they are nice.
I just picked up my Kirby after being repaired. I have to say I have not had a better retail experience in my life! Professional to the MAX. Took my problem seriously and with all sincerity. I am almost glad my vacuum went to $#!+ just so I could provide this establishment with my business. Good form Tidewater Sew-Vac, good form!
Thank you! You provided me with superior service over the phone and in the store. I was very impressed. May God continue to bless your business and multiply it.
I brought in a sewing machine that I took for service elsewhere for a second opinion. The other location told me my machine was irreparable. I almost threw it away! I was so happy I decided to bring it in, because Erik fixed it by the next day! Terrific service and prices are fair!
Very nice employees, but not satisfied with agreement to have simple repair to my vacuum. Was told a low price, and a maximum price if there were complications. When my wife made the pickup, final price exceeded even that by over $40, but I never received telephone call requesting authorization. Also had to return to the store finding the repair was not complete. Sadly, would have been better doing this myself.
This store and its employees are awesome! I have a Janome machine and didnt know where to go to have it serviced since I purchased it elsewhere. I brought it in and learned this store has so much to offer, including beautiful sought after fabric, reasonably priced embroidery thread in a rainbow of colors, parts and feet for my machine and so much more! BJ was so knowledgeable and friendly and showed me things I absolutely must have in my sewing room! Karen was friendly and helpful and even carried my machine into the store for me. I just got a call that my embroidery machine is ready to be picked up tomorrow! Super fast! I highly recommend this store to every sewist! Great experience and I cant wait to go back in there!
Wow thanks for all the education and I sure! Bj was really helpful and very educated . Thank you
I cant say enough good things about Kemps River Tidewater Sew-Vac. This is the kind of service that I thought was a thing of the past, when businesses truly cared about their customers. I brought my Simplicity vacuum cleaner in for the 24-pt. tune-up service, and received it back the next business day. Once I got it home, I noticed that the top kept popping up and the cord would not stay out when extended. I didnt notice these things before I brought it in less than 1 week earlier, so I called up and spoke to Mr. Cartwright. He said to bring it back in. The following morning, I called and was told it was ready. They had replaced the top, which was broken, and adjusted the spring that controlled the cord retraction. Erik Tate, the technician who worked on the vacuum, informed me that there would be no charge for the repair. Now, I knew there was a 30-day warranty on the tune-up, but this clearly was not included in that service and they could have charged me for the part and labor. I would not hesitate to return to this business not only for future repairs, but for the purchase of filters, bags, or even a new vacuum or shampooer. Tidewater Sew-Vac appears to be one of the few businesses left that understands that a happy customer is a repeat customer.
I had my vacuum cleaner repaired was Tidewater Sew and Vac and was pleased with the performance of the vacuum cleaner afterwards. They were professional and very helpful at this location.
Love taking the classes here.
Great group of folks!! Always willing to assist, solve problems and quick to respond. Customer for life.....
I bought a Simplicity Moxie vacuum for my daughter here several years ago. I was so pleased with their service that when I needed a new vacuum I returned here to buy a Simplicity vacuum for myself.
Delightful Customer care and service! I would highly recommend this Tidewater Vac location.
Great staff and store, especially BJ who is very helpful and knowledgeable.
BJ was so helpful when i was looking for seeing items for my daughter. And suggested a sewing machine with payment options.
My family has done business with this company for a lot of years. When they had their place at Indian River and Military, my dad would bring in our vacuums there for repairs and servicing. Years later when I needed parts for my serger I brought it here and the staff helped me get what I needed.
Took my Babylock 6 needle EMP6 embroidery machine from Kill Devil Hills, NC to Va Beach for service, as there are no dealers down here. Was so impressed with Erik and staff. Erik got my 90 pound machine out of car and immediately rolled it into the store on a Tuesday afternoon. I spent the night with a friend, hoping it wouldnt take several nights. Got a call on Wednesday morning that machine was ready. I was so thrilled. Erik stayed late on Tuesday night to get my machine serviced and running again. By Wednesday afternoon, Erik returned machine to my car so that I could be on the way home. Started back stitching on machine this week and its like new again. Many many thanks to Erik for going above and beyond and understanding how important those machines are to us, in order for us to also complete our jobs. Treatment and service was wonderful. Will definitely return. Thanks again to Erik and the rest of the staff for being so accommodating and knowledgeable. If you want good and trusting service, I recommend Kemps River Sew and Vac in Virginia Beach.
My trusted location for sewing machine and serger repair! Always friendly and helpful.
I wondered into Tidewater Sew Vac because of a sign that read sewing classes. Ive always wanted to take classes. Cynthia talked to me about how much fun it is to quilt. I took her quilting class last fall and now Im hooked. Btw, shes a wonderful teacher. I loved it so much I bought a Babylock machine from TSV. I also had my mothers vintage machine serviced by Erik and it runs as good as new. I signed my 9 year old daughter up for classes. This week she completed camp and is really enjoying her new hobby. Im so thankful that we are learning skills that will last a lifetime. Its a great hobby that my daughter and I will have fun sharing.
December is always a busy month for embroidery so when my machine, in the middle of a project, started nesting thread and broke it was a devastating moment! I was on the phone with Tidewater Sew Vac first thing in the morning to see how long I would be out of commission. I was so worried about getting all of my projects done before Christmas!! Fortunately, they were able to expedite my service and repairs and I picked it up Friday evening! It is now Saturday and my machine is stitching away like a dream! This snafu could have broken all of my plans for holiday gifts & donations but Erik @ Kemps River made it completely painless for me! Erik - I can’t thank you enough!! If anyone needs sewing/embroidery machine repairs in Hampton Roads - Tidewater Sew Vac @ Kemps River is the way to go!! :)
Great customer service. The staff is helpful and knowledgeable
Went in with a broken sewing machine. All they were interested in was selling me a new machine. HIGH PRESSURE SALES PEOPLE HERE. I took my broken machine and left. Not your neighborhood sewing shop any more if that is what you are looking for go to A Different Touch.
I have brought my vacuum cleaner & sewing machine to Tidewater Sew & Vac for over 20 years. Starting at the Battlefield shop then, meeting Eric on Indian River then finding Mr Cartwright & Lyla at Lynhaven and followed the shop to Kempsriver! Always excellent customer service! But it wasnt till I met Cynthia & I bought a new sewing machine & took Quilting 101 that my world rocked! Cynthia adds so much! As a teacher she inspires, challenges & encourages!!! I want to learn everything she knows😍 So I will continue to be around for quite a while!!! Highly recommended to all seamstresses!!!!
Always provides excellent service on my Babylock Tierra and Brother Dream Machine. I can count on them to keep my machines working great even when Im in a rush to get them back.
I first came to tidewater sewvac to get my sewing machine fixed. And I was so very happy with the service and the treatment I got that I decided to apply for a job. I am now the staff educator at the tidewater sewvac location (kempsriver) that I took my machine into to get fixed. And I have just recently added another sewing machine.
DISCARD THIS RATING.Your page came up for KIRBY. it wont let me deleted it.
I had a great experience today at the store today. Ive been researching vacuum cleaners for about a month now and decided today was the day to day to purchase. Erik and Cynthia were great. Looking at a Miele at first, Erik asked me some great questions and asked if I was set on a Miele or would I consider another brand. Open, I said sure - what do you have? After letting him know what my needs were (had to do a great job on pet hair) he suggested a Simplicity Moxie - was actually a bit less expensive but more heavy duty. Erik said take it home and try it out. I did, called and said charge it.Ultimately, I needed a great vacuum. What I received was excellent customer service and advice. Working for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, customer service is key to being able feed those who need help. It was great to have wonderful service. Erik and I discussed the theory of treating customers well, as for a business like his, you look for a customer for life. They are well on their way! Kudos to you all!
Thanks again for your awesome service Erik
This is the place you are looking for. You know they are legit if they can fix sewing machines and vacuum cleaners, not just a couple kinds of sewing machine. I called around and tried to find someone to fix my Juki serger and one place was like uh oh cant fix a serger and two other places were like Woah no way we could do that today and some places were even unfriendly. Well Erik and Cynthia really saved the day. They didnt just take care of the problem (and fast!) they understand customer service. No less than three other places I talked to before didnt seem to really get the concept. They gave a 30 day money back guarantee on their service, which means they are confident in their work. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to buy a sewing machine or vacuum or get one repaired. Check the stars on this one. They will take care of you.
Great sewing classes and staff
I had an industrial Consew sewing machine that would not stitch right but these folks got it repaired the next day, and 20.00 less than an outfit in Norfolk. I will bring my Oreck vacuum in for service when it needs it!
The people at Tidewater Sew and. Vac are knowledgeable helpful and friendly.
They were very nice.
Great employees!
Rude
Wait was long :/
Great place